David Wilfork, son of Houston Texans nose tackle Vince Wilfork, carries his dad's helmet and shoulder pads off the practice field during Texans training camp at the Methodist Training Center Wednesday, Aug. ... more

In his third practice back since being activated from the physically unable to perform list after undergoing microfracture surgery in December, the former top overall pick increased his activity markedly.

Clowney appeared much more explosive, comfortable and confident in his surgically repaired knee.

“We do a little bit more each day with him, and so far, so good,” Texans coach Bill O’Brien said. “I think it’s been three days in a row now which is good, and do a little bit more tomorrow, and then we’ll evaluate him at the end of the week. But so far, so good.”

Clowney was able to plant his feet, change directions and quickly dart upfield.

While it’s evident that Clowney’s mobility isn’t at the same level that he flashed at the NFL scouting combine in 2014 when the former South Carolina star ran the 40-yard dash in 4.53 seconds at 6-5 and 266 pounds and had a 37 1/2 inch vertical leap, he’s made significant progress in his rehabilitation from the knee problems that limited him to seven tackles as a rookie last season.

“More about, not necessarily what I’m looking for with him but just communicating with him: ‘How’s it going, how you feeling?’,” O’Brien said. “What I’m looking for is his mentality when it comes to how much he knows with the defense, how much is review, how has he been paying attention.

“And the one thing about him is, he’s a bright football player. He’s come out here and he understands the scheme, he knows what we’re talking about, so he’s been paying attention in the meetings that he’s been in and now it’s just more of a matter of getting into football shape.”